I worked on the rebuilding of the internal systems of XZ 131 at RAF Gutersloh after the structural repairs had been made at RAF Laarbruch. This part of the work took about 6 months to complete; it was a challenge to assemble all pieces in the correct sequence much like a 3 dimensional jigsaw puzzle. As many parts were damaged while they were not installed; the supply of replacement parts often held up the task. If a key component was not available when needed, no further work could be done until it was in place.

The pilot who had been flying this aircraft when the engine failed, was also the pilot who carried out the test flights when all the repairs had been completed. His name was Chris Moran. He later became Air Chief Marshal the second highest officer rank in the RAF. Unfortunately Chris Moran died recently on the 26 May 2010 while taking part in a mini Triathlon at RAF Brize Norton see this link http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/defence/7768799/RAFs-second-in-command-dies-during-triathlon.html